Which organelle is responsible for protein synthesis?

Ribosomes are the organelles primarily responsible for protein synthesis within a cell. These small structures can be found either floating freely in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum, where they play a crucial role in translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into polypeptide chains, ultimately forming proteins. The ribosome links amino acids together in the sequence dictated by the mRNA, thus facilitating the fundamental process of building proteins necessary for various cellular functions and overall organismal growth and repair.

Other organelles mentioned serve different critical functions. The Golgi apparatus is involved in modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for secretion or delivery to other organelles. Lysosomes are responsible for the breakdown of waste materials and cellular debris, while centrioles play a role in cell division and the organization of microtubules. Understanding the distinct roles of these organelles emphasizes the specialized nature of cellular functions, particularly highlighting how ribosomes are central to the biosynthesis of proteins.